If you see the latest Elle UK Magazine cover photoshoot, you’ll spot French actress Lea Seydoux in an oxblood leather jacket and dress that evokes déjà vu. There’s something strikingly familiar about the print of Seydoux’s Louis Vuitton mini dress; it features a take on Sindh’s famous Ajrak.
If you see the latest Elle UK Magazine cover photoshoot, you’ll spot French actress Lea Seydoux in an oxblood leather jacket and dress that evokes déjà vu. There’s something strikingly familiar about the print of Seydoux’s Louis Vuitton mini dress; it features a take on Sindh’s famous Ajrak.
Featured in its Pre Fall 2016 collection, there are several pieces designed with the ajrak print, ranging from a monochrome version to one with pops of bright crimson. The collection by
acclaimed couturier Nicolas Ghesquière coalesces themes of sportswear, neo-classic and dream adventure into ready to wear, while titling the ajrak pieces as “mosaic tribal.” The fashion conglomerate is touting it as the monogram of the season, with a simple blouse selling for $1200.
This isn’t the first time international designers have appropriated influences without giving credit where it is due. A couple of years ago British designer Paul Smith left audiences in Pakistan bemused with his Robert sandal; the said slipper was a rather outdated version of our Peshawari chappal. Available a dime a dozen in Pakistan, the appropriated slippers were being sold for a whopping $500 a pop and sparked a debate about crediting influences. Then came the Dolce and Gabbana abayas, focusing on the rich Middle Eastern market as well as a resort show by Chanel that featured oil canisters as hang bags.
